Category: Geriatrics

According to a 2016 study published in *Neurology*, antibiotics may be linked to delirium and other brain problems more often than previously thought. The elderly are particularly susceptible to this side effect, prompting the critical question: **Can antibiotics cause confusion in the elderly?** This article explores the specific risks and provides vital information for patients and caregivers.

A 2015 study published in *JAMA Internal Medicine* found that older adults who used a strong anticholinergic medication daily for more than three years had a 54% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with less use. This research highlights a critical public health question: **What common drug has been linked to dementia?** While no single pill causes dementia, several drug classes are associated with increased risk, particularly in older populations.

Over 13 million Americans experience overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, and for many older adults, concerns about cognitive side effects from medication are a significant consideration. Understanding **what overactive bladder medication does not cause dementia** is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment, especially when weighing the benefits against potential long-term cognitive risks associated with some drug classes.

Studies reveal that antipsychotics, including risperidone and haloperidol, carry a significant black box warning for increased mortality risk in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. When considering pharmacological interventions for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), the critical question of 'Is risperidone or haloperidol better for dementia in the elderly?' requires a careful evaluation of risks versus benefits, efficacy, and safety profile.

According to the American Geriatrics Society's Beers Criteria, atropine is listed as a potentially inappropriate medication for older adults due to its strong anticholinergic properties. This critical geriatric guideline underscores the serious risks associated with prescribing atropine to the elderly, prompting careful consideration of why is atropine contraindicated in the elderly.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, medications can temporarily improve dementia symptoms for those with Alzheimer's disease by affecting specific chemical messengers in the brain. This guide will explain what are the three most prescribed drugs for dementia and how they function to help manage symptoms.

Globally, around 57 million people are affected by dementia, a number expected to nearly triple by 2050. Growing evidence raises concerns about which drug has been associated with increased dementia in the elderly, pointing primarily towards common prescription and over-the-counter medications.

While the donepezil-memantine combination is FDA-approved for Alzheimer's disease, the practice of taking galantamine and memantine together is rooted in strong mechanistic and clinical evidence. Targeting two distinct neurotransmitter systems simultaneously offers a synergistic approach to managing cognitive decline.

As of 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted full approval to two amyloid antibodies for treating early-stage Alzheimer's disease: lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla) [1.2.1, 1.2.3, 1.2.4]. This article answers: **what amyloid antibodies are FDA approved** and details their use.

As people age, the body's natural production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, declines significantly. This age-related change is a primary reason many older adults experience sleep disturbances, prompting them to wonder: is melatonin safe for people over 70?.